JP5115767B2 - Vehicle input system - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to an input system for a vehicle in which operation input is performed using a screen display.

  In vehicles such as automobiles in recent years, a plurality of selection areas (command switches) drawn on a display surface of a display device positioned in front of a driver are operated by a remote control unit provided at a position different from the display device. There is an input system that can be selected and input by decision (Patent Document 1). According to such an input system, for example, when a blind operation is performed by a driver, if the remote control unit is arranged at a position close to the driver's hand such as the driver's seat, the driver remains in the driving posture. It is easy to use because the operation can be performed in the state. Also, in such an input system, in general, by selecting / deciding on the selection area displayed on the screen, the screen is shifted to the lower hierarchy screen, and this is repeated to reach the target screen. A mode in which a desired operation is performed on the screen is adopted.

JP 2004-252760 A

  However, the vehicle input system as described above has the following demands in order to make the operability more excellent. In other words, a request to be able to confirm later whether or not the operation is the same as the intention of the operator when transitioning to a lower hierarchy screen by selecting and determining from a plurality of operation areas. It is.

  For example, in the case of a driving driver who is difficult to keep watching the display screen for a long time, a relatively long time may elapse between the time when an operation is performed once and the time when the subsequent operation is performed. In such a case, the user may forget what operation was performed in the previous operation, and in that case, it may lose sight of which hierarchical position the current display is. Also, if the previous operation was an erroneous operation, the reason why the intended screen is not displayed when the driver sees the display that has been switched by the operation after a while, as above. May be lost. In such a case, there is a method of starting the hierarchy moving operation from the beginning by performing an operation of returning to the top menu screen, which is very troublesome.

  An object of the present invention is to enable the user to confirm later whether or not the operation is the same as the intention of the operator when the screen is shifted to a lower hierarchy screen by selecting and determining from a plurality of operation areas. Is to provide an input system for a vehicle.

Means for Solving the Problems and Effects of the Invention

In order to solve the above problems, the first of the vehicle input systems of the present invention is:
A display means, a display control means for displaying a selection screen having a plurality of selection areas on the display surface of the display means, and a plurality of selections in the selection screen provided at a position different from the display means. An input system for a vehicle comprising an operation unit for selectively inputting an area by selecting an area,
The selection screen includes one or more screen switching areas for switching the display on the display screen to a predetermined lower hierarchy screen by being selected and input by the operation unit in the plurality of selection areas. Including upper hierarchy screens
The display control means includes a first corresponding image having one or both of a color and a pattern unique to each screen switching region as an image visually indicating a correspondence relationship with the screen switching region in the upper layer screen. On the other hand, when one of the screen switching areas is selected and input by the operation unit, the display on the display surface is switched to the lower hierarchy screen corresponding to the screen switching area. In the lower hierarchy screen, a second corresponding image having a visual relevance related to either or both of a color and a pattern is displayed on the first corresponding image corresponding to the screen switching area that has been determined and input. Is,
The first corresponding image has a first corresponding color image filled with a color unique to the corresponding screen switching area, and the second corresponding image has at least a hue with the color of the first corresponding image. Having a second corresponding color image filled with the same or similar color;
The lower hierarchy screen is a selection screen having a plurality of the selection areas, and each of the selection areas includes one or more screen switching areas for switching display of the display surface to a predetermined lower hierarchy screen. Contains
The display control means displays the second corresponding color image when displaying the lower layer screen, while switching the screen as an image visually indicating a correspondence relationship with one or more screen switching regions. The third corresponding color image composed of a color unique to the region is displayed as an image composed of a different color whose hue approximates that of the second corresponding color image .
Second of the vehicle input system of the present invention,
Display means, display control means for displaying a selection screen having a plurality of selection areas on the display surface of the display means, and a plurality of selection areas in the selection screen are selectively selected and entered. An input system for a vehicle comprising an operation unit for
The selection screen includes one or more screen switching areas for switching the display on the display screen to a predetermined lower hierarchy screen by being selected and input by the operation unit in the plurality of selection areas. Including upper hierarchy screens
The display control means includes a first corresponding image having one or both of a color and a pattern unique to each screen switching region as an image visually indicating a correspondence relationship with the screen switching region in the upper layer screen. On the other hand, when one of the screen switching areas is selected and input by the operation unit, the display on the display surface is switched to the lower hierarchy screen corresponding to the screen switching area. In the lower hierarchy screen, a second corresponding image having a visual relevance related to either or both of a color and a pattern is displayed on the first corresponding image corresponding to the screen switching area that has been determined and input. Is,
The first corresponding image has a first pattern image on which a corresponding screen switching area unique pattern is drawn, and the second corresponding image has the same pattern as the first corresponding image drawn thereon Has a second pattern image,
The lower hierarchy screen is a selection screen having a plurality of the selection areas, and each of the selection areas includes one or more screen switching areas for switching display of the display surface to a predetermined lower hierarchy screen. Contains
The display control means displays the second corresponding image when displaying the lower hierarchy screen, while displaying the second switching image as an image visually indicating a correspondence relationship with one or more of the switching screen regions. A third corresponding image having a unique pattern is displayed as an image including the same pattern as the pattern of the second corresponding image.

  In the present invention, the visual relevance between corresponding images is defined as meaning either or both of pattern matching and color matching or approximation between images to be compared. In other words, in the present invention, the first corresponding image and the second corresponding image only need to correspond to at least one of pattern matching and color approximation (including matching), and both correspond. May be.

  In the present invention, color approximation means that the hue approximates the reference color, and that the hue approximates the hue perception on the hue circle defined in “JIS Z 8721” shown in FIG. The difference rate is assumed to be within a range of ± 10 from the reference color. For example, when the reference color has a hue of 5R (red) in FIG. 23, the color that approximates the hue is a range of 5RP to 5YR centering on 5R in FIG. Note that the unique color of a region means a color having a hue that differs from the color of the remaining region at least beyond the above range when there is a remaining region. Further, the color unique to the area means that when there is a remaining area, unlike the color of the remaining area, the color is not in the approximate state of the above color.

  In the present invention, a pattern is a pattern figure that appears regularly on the surface of various objects such as various pictures and shapes that appear in the region, and has the idea of a character string, a symbol string, and color and size. Not included. In other words, the same pattern only needs to appear in the same pattern in the area, such as hatching, and even if the color and area size are different, the figure that appears in the area and its drawing pattern If they match, the same pattern is assumed. Further, the unique pattern of the area means that when there is a remaining area, the pattern is different from the pattern of the remaining area.

  According to the configuration of the present invention, the first corresponding image corresponding to each screen switching area is displayed in the upper hierarchy screen, while one of the screen switching areas is selected / selected. When displaying the lower layer screen corresponding to the determined operation, the lower layer screen has a visual relevance with the first corresponding image showing the screen switching area operated on the upper layer screen. Since the second corresponding image is displayed, it is possible to easily imagine the screen switching area operated on the upper layer screen simply by looking at the lower layer screen, and what operation is currently displayed from the upper layer screen. It is possible to intuitively understand whether or not the screen has transitioned to the lower hierarchy screen. Furthermore, as this is used, the relationship between each screen switching area and the corresponding image is memorized, so that it is possible to recognize a desired image only by recognizing the corresponding image (for example, color) without recognizing characters in the screen switching area. The operation can be performed.

  In the present invention, the first corresponding image has a first corresponding color image filled with a color unique to the corresponding screen switching area, and the second corresponding image is a color of the first corresponding image. And a second corresponding color image filled with a color having at least the same or similar hue. As a result, it is possible to grasp the relationship between the operation on the upper layer screen and the previous lower layer screen that has been transitioned by the operation, using a color having a visually distinct difference. At this time, if the first corresponding color image and the second corresponding color image have the same hue, the relevance thereof can be grasped more clearly and easily.

  In the present invention, the first corresponding image has a first pattern image in which a corresponding pattern unique to the screen switching area is drawn, and the second corresponding image is the same pattern as the first corresponding image. Can be drawn. As a result, it is possible to grasp the relation between the operation on the upper layer screen and the lower layer screen to which the transition is made by the operation by the pattern in the region having a visually distinct difference.

  In the present invention, the first corresponding image and the second corresponding image may have similar external shapes. As a result, the relevance between the first corresponding image and the second corresponding image can be clearly grasped visually.

  In the present invention, the second corresponding image can be a background image on the lower layer screen. In this case, since the pattern and color of the first corresponding image are displayed over the entire background on the lower layer screen, the screen switching area operated on the upper layer screen can be grasped more easily and clearly. .

  In the present invention, when the above-described corresponding color image is used as the corresponding image, the lower layer screen is a selection screen having a plurality of the selection areas, and each of the selection areas has a predetermined lower level. The hierarchical screen includes one or more screen switching areas for switching the display of the display surface, and the display control unit displays the second corresponding color image when displaying the lower hierarchical screen. A third corresponding color image having a color unique to the screen switching area as an image visually indicating a correspondence relationship with one or more of the screen switching areas, and a hue approximate to the color of the second corresponding color image It can be displayed as an image composed of different colors. According to this configuration, when a lower layer screen is displayed by sequentially selecting the screen switching area displayed on the screen, the corresponding color is changed by changing the hue within a certain approximate range. Since the color of the image changes, it is possible to imagine a screen switching area operated on the upper layer screen from the color of the corresponding color image being displayed. Further, in a hierarchical screen display with many branches as it goes to the lower hierarchy, the branch proceeds according to the type of control content, so according to the present invention, the corresponding color displayed on the screen Just by looking at the image, it is possible to easily imagine the type of control content that is the source.

  Further, in the above configuration, among the screens having a plurality of screen switching areas, it corresponds to the screen switching area determined and inputted in the hierarchical image one level higher displayed on the selection screen of the lowest hierarchy. When the corresponding color image and the corresponding color image corresponding to the screen switching area determined and input on the selection screen of the highest hierarchy when reaching the selection screen of the lowest hierarchy, the hue of each other is the same or the hue Can be an image of a color that approximates. As a result, the corresponding color image displayed on the screen from the screen located at the highest level among the screens having a plurality of screen switching areas can be displayed within the predetermined hue range. Since it is the selected color, it does not become a color greatly deviating from the original hue. As a result, it is possible to more easily imagine the contents of the operations that have been performed so far and the type of operation system that is the basis of the details.

  The display control means in the present invention can reduce either or both of the saturation and the brightness of the corresponding color image displayed as the screen is lower in the hierarchy. Since it is possible to grasp the depth of the current screen by reducing the saturation and lightness, for example, when switching the current screen to a screen of a considerably higher level, 1 is returned after returning to the highest level. This is a criterion for determining whether it is faster to perform an operation of moving down one layer at a time or to move up one layer at a time.

  In the present invention, since the second corresponding image is an image intended to show the entire screen, not an image intended to show an individual area in the screen, if displayed as a background image of the screen, the entire screen Can be recognized. However, it does not have to be a background image, and for example, it can be displayed in an approximate area with a screen content display means provided in a predetermined area in the screen.

  In the present invention, when the corresponding color image is used as the corresponding image, a color change input operation for each of the corresponding color images is accepted, and the color setting of the corresponding color image is changed based on the setting input operation. Color changing means can be provided. Thereby, the color of each corresponding color image can be determined as a desired color.

  In the present invention, the selection area on the selection screen is arranged in a cross shape on the display surface, and the operation unit has a cross shape corresponding to the selection area displayed in a cross shape on the display surface. The cross operation unit can be operated in four directions. Since only an operation in a direction corresponding to the selection area is possible, for example, an erroneous operation is less than an operation of selecting the selection area with a pointer that can be arbitrarily moved in the two-dimensional direction on the display surface.

The block diagram which shows the structure of the input system for vehicles which is one Embodiment of this invention. The interior view of the vehicle interior of the vehicle carrying the operation input system of this invention. The figure which shows an example of the operation part applicable to the operation input system of this invention simply. FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining a plurality of types of operation methods possible in the operation unit of FIG. 3. The display example of the present condition display screen which can be displayed in the input system for vehicles of this invention. The 1st display example of the screen for selection which can be displayed in the input system for vehicles of the present invention. 7 is a display example of a lower hierarchy screen branched from FIG. The example of a display of the lower hierarchy screen of FIG. The example of a display when a selection state is switched in the lower hierarchy screen of FIG. 6 is a display example of a screen whose branch is different from that of FIG. FIG. 11 is a display example of a screen that is different from that in FIGS. 7 and 10 among the lower hierarchy screens branched from FIG. 6. FIG. 7 is a display example of a screen that is different from that of FIGS. The 2nd display example of the screen for selection which can be displayed in the input system for vehicles of the present invention. 14 is a display example of a lower hierarchy screen branched from FIG. 15 is a display example of a lower hierarchy screen branched from FIG. The 3rd display example of the screen for selection which can be displayed in the input system for vehicles of the present invention. 16 is a display example of a lower hierarchy screen branched from FIG. The 4th display example of the screen for selection which can be displayed in the input system for vehicles of the present invention. 18 is a display example of a lower hierarchy screen branched from FIG. The 5th display example of the screen for selection which can be displayed in the input system for vehicles of the present invention. 21 is a display example of a lower hierarchy screen branched from FIG. The display example of the lower hierarchy screen branched from FIG. Hue ring defined in JIS Z 8721 ".

  Hereinafter, an embodiment of an operating device of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

  FIG. 1 is a block diagram schematically showing the configuration of a vehicle input system according to an embodiment of the present invention. The vehicle input system 1 in FIG. 1 includes a display screen (display means) 3 and a selection screen 300 having a plurality of selection areas (command switches) on a display surface 30 (see FIG. 2) of the display 3. A control unit (main display control unit) 10 to be displayed; an operation unit (selection operation unit) 2 for selectively selecting and inputting a plurality of selection areas 3A in the displayed selection screen 300; It is an input system for vehicles provided with.

  The display 3 can use, for example, a well-known liquid crystal display device that can freely display still images and moving images, and is connected to the control unit 10 via the display control circuit 31 and output from the control unit 10. It drives according to the display drive signal. Various switches are provided in the peripheral portion of the display 3, for example, a menu switch 24 or the like is disposed, and is connected to the control unit 10 via a predetermined signal input unit (not shown). An operation signal corresponding to the above is input to the control unit 10. The menu switch 24 is an operation unit that switches the display on the display surface 30 of the display 3 to the top menu screen 302 when operated.

  The operation unit 2 in the present embodiment is a composite operation unit 2 configured to be able to independently perform operations by a plurality of types of operation methods that enable the selection operation. The composite operation unit 2 here is provided at a position different from the display surface 30 of the display device 3 as shown in FIG. 2, in order to remotely perform an operation input to the selection area 3 </ b> A displayed on the display surface 30. Remote control means. The composite operation unit 2 is an operation unit that can be operated by a plurality of types of operation methods, and an operation in a different direction is determined for each operation method. Here, as shown in FIG. 3, three types of operation methods are possible for one operation knob 20, and the operation directions of the three types of operation methods are different. Specifically, a rotation operation method (FIG. 4A) in which the operation knob 20 is rotated around the axis line z of the operation knob 20 itself, and the axis line of the operation knob 20 itself at the reference position of the operation knob 20 A moving operation method (FIG. 4B) for moving the axis z in a direction perpendicular to a predetermined reference axis Z that coincides with z, and a pressing operation method for pressing in the axial direction of the reference axis Z (push-in operation) : FIG. 4C is possible.

  An operation by the moving operation method (hereinafter also referred to as a moving operation) is guided so as to be movable only in a plurality of predetermined moving operation directions from a predetermined reference position. The moving operation here is a cross direction operation (cross operation method) in which the operation knob 20 is moved (including tilting) from the reference position in the four cross directions perpendicular to the reference axis Z. The moving operation may be an operation in which at least the operation knob 20 moves in a direction perpendicular to the reference axis Z, and the operation knob 20 is moved while the axis z is held parallel to the reference axis Z. Alternatively, a tilting operation (tilting operation) in which the operation knob 20 is moved in a direction perpendicular to the reference axis Z while tilting the axis z from a predetermined reference position may be used.

  Note that the composite operation unit 2 here is configured as a cross operation unit that can be operated in four directions of the vehicle front-rear direction and the vehicle left-right direction, and the vehicle front-rear direction among the operation directions is the display surface 30 of the display 3. The left-right direction of the vehicle corresponds to the left-right direction of the display surface 30 of the display 3.

  In addition, the composite operation unit 2 here is configured so that the operation knob 20 is held at a reference position (neutral position) or a biasing means (spring member or the like) or a reaction force applying means ( And an operation detection unit 21 to 23 for detecting operation of various operation methods on the operation knob 20 in the apparatus housing. Here, the first operation detection unit 21 includes a rotation operation detection unit 21 that electrically detects a rotation operation amount based on the rotation operation to the operation knob 20, and the second operation detection unit 22 includes the operation knob 20. A moving operation detecting unit 22 for detecting the moving operation to the operation knob 20 is further provided. Further, as the third operation detecting unit 23, a pressing operation detecting unit 23 for detecting the pressing operation to the operation knob 20 is provided. These operation detection units 21 to 23 are respectively connected to the control unit 10 via signal input units (not shown), and input operation signals corresponding to the respective operations to the control unit 10.

  The composite operation unit 2 that can be operated in a plurality of operation modes with the single operation knob 20 as described above is well known as seen in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2009-176432 and Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2009-066438. A description of a specific internal configuration is omitted.

  The control unit 10 is configured around a well-known microcomputer having a CPU, ROM, RAM, and the like (not shown). The CPU executes a program stored in a storage unit such as the ROM or the external storage device 4. Implement various controls. Moreover, the control part 10 is connected to the control part of the other vehicle equipment 5 via the vehicle-mounted LAN 6, and exchange of data and a control signal is possible between these.

  Further, the control unit 10 functions as a control execution unit that executes corresponding control based on the operation signals received from the operation units 21 to 24. For example, various functions such as the navigation device 51, the vehicle air conditioner 52, the car audio 53, and other in-vehicle devices 54 connected via the in-vehicle LAN 6 can be executed according to the operation on the composite operation unit 2. it can.

  The external storage device 4 connected to the control unit 10 includes an image information storage unit 41 that stores image information for displaying various screens. The control unit 10 reads out the image information at a necessary timing and displays a screen generated based on the image information on the display surface 30 of the display device 3. The image information storage unit 41 stores image information for each of a plurality of displayable screens. For example, a background image for displaying a background image as image information for displaying the selection screen 300 described above. Information, input image information for displaying a plurality of input images on the background image, auxiliary image information for displaying auxiliary images to be described later, and correspondence for displaying various corresponding images to be described later Image information and the like are stored.

  The external storage device 4 has a plurality of operation method specifying information for specifying the operation method of the selection operation that can be received by the composite operation unit 2 when the selection screen 300 is displayed based on the image information. An operation method specifying information storage unit 42 that stores each selection screen is provided.

  Further, when displaying the selection screen 300 on the display surface 30 of the display device 3, the control unit 10 displays the input image 3 </ b> C in a plurality of predetermined areas on the background image 3 </ b> B corresponding to the display surface 30. The area where the input image 3C is displayed is displayed as a superposed display area 3A. The control unit 10 selects one of the selection regions 3A (input image 3C) by the selection operation by the composite operation unit 2, and further, when a decision input is made on the selected selection region 3A (input image 3C). Then, control corresponding to the selected area 3A (input image 3C) is performed.

  Here, the selection operation for selecting the selection area 3A is an operation for moving the cursor to the selection area 3A. Specifically, in the selection screen 300 displayed on the display surface 30, This is an operation for alternatively selecting the selection area 3A by sequentially moving the cursor to the side corresponding to the moving operation direction of the operation knob 20 while changing the adjacent selection area 3A (input image 3C). Note that the cursor here indicates that the image of the selected selection area is enlarged and displayed. Further, the determination input may be executed simultaneously with selection by the selection operation, or may be executed by performing another determination input operation different from the selection operation in a state where the selection area 3A is selected by the selection operation. A configuration may be used. Here, either the rotation operation or the movement operation is determined as the selection operation in accordance with the selection screen 300, and the pressing operation is determined as the decision input operation.

  In the present embodiment, the operation method of the composite operation unit 2 for selecting each selection area 3A (input image 3C) on the selection screen 300, that is, the operation method corresponding to the selection screen 300 is associated. Therefore, the auxiliary image 3D reflecting the operation flow line of the composite operation unit 2 in the corresponding operation method is superimposed and displayed on the background image 3B by the control unit 10. Thereby, when the selection screen 300 is displayed, it can be determined by the auxiliary image 3D which operation method of the composite operation unit 2 is used to perform the selection operation.

  Here, the screen display process executed by the control unit 100 will be described.

  The control unit 100 executes the screen display program 43 stored in the external storage device 4 so that a screen switching request signal is input from the composite operation unit 2, other operation units, or an external control unit. In this case, the image information corresponding to the screen requested to be displayed by the screen switching request signal is read from the image information storage unit 41, and the screen display on the display 3 is executed based on the image information. When the displayed screen is the selection screen 300, there are a plurality of selection areas 3A in the screen, and when these selection areas 3A are selected and input by the composite operation unit 2, The control unit 10 executes control corresponding to the selected and selected selection area 3A. When the selected and input selection area 3A is the screen switching area 3a, control for switching the display to a predetermined lower hierarchy screen corresponding to the screen switching area 3a is executed. The switching destination is also the selection screen 300. When the screen switching area 3a exists again in the selection area 3A, the screen switching area 3a is again selected and input by the composite operation unit 2. In this case, a screen of a lower hierarchy than the predetermined level corresponding to the screen switching area 3a is displayed. In the present embodiment, it is possible to perform screen display based on such a hierarchical structure.

  However, in such a screen display based on a hierarchical structure, the number of layers and further the number of branches in each layer (the number of screen switching areas 3a) increases, so where the operator is in the hierarchical structure. There is a possibility of losing sight. In this case, even if you want to display the desired screen, you will not know the efficient screen switching procedure for transitioning from the current screen to the desired screen, and you will reach the desired screen in a procedure that is more laborious than necessary. There are many cases. For this reason, in the present embodiment, the above-described selection screen 300 and the previous operation screen 300 transitioned from the selection screen 300 have a visual relevance, so that The problem is solved.

  Specifically, the control unit (display control means) 10 displays an upper layer screen (selection screen having a lower layer screen) 300 having one or more screen switching areas 3a on the display surface 30. In this case, not only the screen switching area 3a existing in the upper layer screen 300 is displayed so as to be visible, but also the color unique to each screen switching area 3a as an image visually showing the correspondence with the screen switching area 3a. And the first corresponding image 3X having either or both of the pattern and the pattern are displayed. The control unit (display control means) 10 displays the display screen 30 when one of the screen switching areas 3a existing in the upper hierarchy screen 300 is selected and input by the composite operation unit 2. Is switched to the lower hierarchy screen 300 corresponding to the screen switching area 3a that has been determined and input, and the visual relevance to the first corresponding image 3X corresponding to the screen switching area 3a that has been determined and input at this time Is displayed in the newly displayed lower layer screen 300.

  According to this configuration, while the first corresponding image 3X corresponding to each screen switching area 3a is displayed in the upper hierarchy screen 300, one of the screen switching areas 3a is selected / selected. When the lower hierarchy screen 300 corresponding to the determined operation is displayed, the first corresponding image 3X showing the screen switching area 3a operated on the upper hierarchy screen 300 and the visual image are displayed in the lower hierarchy screen 300. Since the second corresponding image 3Y having the relevance is displayed, it is possible to easily imagine the screen switching area 3a operated on the upper layer screen 300 only by looking at the lower layer screen 300. It becomes possible to intuitively understand whether or not the operation has shifted from the upper layer screen 300 to the currently displayed lower layer screen 300. Further, by using this, the relationship between each screen switching area 3a and the corresponding image 3X is learned. Therefore, when the upper layer screen 300 is displayed, the control contents are displayed in the screen switching area 3a. Even without recognizing a character or the like, it is possible to perform a selection operation to a desired screen switching area 3a only by recognizing the corresponding image 3X corresponding to the screen switching area 3a.

  Here, the visual relevance between the corresponding images means one or both of pattern matching and color matching or approximation between the images to be compared.

  The color approximation here means that the hue approximates the reference color. The hue approximation means that the hue perception difference on the hue circle defined in “JIS Z 8721” shown in FIG. Suppose that the rate is within a range of ± 10 from the reference color.

  In addition, the pattern here is a pattern figure that appears regularly on the surface of the object such as various pictures and shapes that appear in the area, and includes notions of character strings and symbol strings, as well as colors and sizes. It is not a thing.

  In addition, when there is a remaining area, the color or pattern unique to the area means that they are different from the remaining area and are not even approximated in terms of color.

  Here, a display example of a screen displayed on the display surface 30 of the display 3 of the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS.

  In the drawings showing examples of such screen displays, hatching patterns are drawn in each area, and visual differences between the areas are drawn so as to be identifiable. However, these patterns do not necessarily represent the pattern itself. I don't mean. That is, each region is drawn so as to be visually identifiable, and the difference may indicate, for example, a color difference instead of a drawn pattern, or may indicate a difference between the two.

  FIG. 5 is a current state display screen 301 that displays vehicle information such as the current control state and detection information of various in-vehicle devices 5 of the vehicle. In FIG. 5, audio reproduction information, air conditioner setting information, clock time information, and the like are displayed. When the menu switch 24 is operated in this state, a transition is made to a top menu screen 302 as shown in FIG.

  A top menu screen 302 in FIG. 6 is a selection screen 300 in which a plurality of selection areas 3A are arranged in a ring shape at predetermined intervals in the circumferential direction with respect to a predetermined screen reference point O on the display surface 30. The selection area 3 </ b> A here is arranged in a cross shape (up / down / left / right) around a predetermined screen reference point O in the display surface 30. In FIG. 6, the cursor indicating the selected selection area 3A in the form of an enlarged display does not select any selection area 3A, and the composite operation unit 2 is maintained at the neutral position.

  The top menu screen 302 is a top layer screen (upper layer screen) including one or more screen switching regions 3a in the plurality of selection regions 3A. A first corresponding image 3X having either or both of a color and a pattern unique to each screen switching area 3a is displayed as an image that visually indicates the corresponding relationship with the one or more screen switching areas 3a. Each of the first corresponding images 3X has a color that does not approximate each other and a pattern that does not match each other, and is an image that clearly shows the visual difference between them. Here, the background image 3B is black and the character symbols and the like are white (or vice versa), and each selection area 3A is selected in a color different from the background and the character symbols and not close to each other. Has been. Furthermore, the color assigned to each selection area 3A is defined as the color associated with the control content / control type corresponding to each selection area 3A. Here, “Climate” represents “comfortable” “green”. “Audio” is “orange (warm color)” for “fun”, etc., and has lightness and saturation that can contrast with characters. However, these colors are drawn as colors with slightly reduced brightness and saturation, thereby reducing the burden on the user's eyes.

  When one of the screen switching areas 3a in the top menu screen 302 is selected and input by an operation on the composite operation unit 2, the control unit 10 that has received the input displays the top menu displayed on the display surface 30. The screen 302 is switched to lower hierarchy screens 303 to 306 corresponding to the screen switching area 3a that has been determined and input. In the top menu screen 302 of FIG. 6, all of the upper, lower, left, and right selection areas 3A are screen switching areas 3a. Here, when the upper screen switching area 3a of FIG. 6 is selected and entered, it corresponds to this. When the display is switched to the screen 303 in FIG. 7 which is the lower layer screen, and the right screen switching area 3a is selected and inputted, the display is switched to the screen 304 in FIG. 10 corresponding to the lower layer screen. When the screen switching area 3a on the left side is selected and entered, the display is switched to the screen 305 in FIG. 11, which is a lower hierarchy screen corresponding thereto, and the lower screen switching area 3a is selected and entered. Then, the display is switched to the screen 306 in FIG. At this time, the control unit 10 selects any one of the color and the pattern for the first corresponding image 3X corresponding to the screen switching area 3a for which the determination input is made in the screen 302 before switching in the switched lower layer screens 303 to 306. Or a second corresponding image 3Y having a visual relevance related to both.

  Note that the first corresponding image 3X in FIG. 6 is an image (corresponding color image) having a color unique to the corresponding screen switching area 3a. The first corresponding image 3X here is the input image 3C displayed in the corresponding screen switching area 3a, and the entire image area of the input image 3C is filled with a color unique to the corresponding screen switching area 3a. The input images 3C are filled with colors that are not approximate to each other. Note that only the input image 3C may be the first corresponding image 3X, but here, the auxiliary image 3D is also the first corresponding image 3X.

  Here, the lower layer screens 303 to 306 that can be shifted from the top menu screen 302, and the layer screens further below them will be described individually.

  A screen 303 in FIG. 7 is a lower layer screen having the top menu screen 302 in FIG. 6 as an upper layer. Like the top menu screen 302, the screen 303 has a plurality of selection areas 3A, and one or more in the selection areas 3A. This is a selection screen 300 including the screen switching area 3a. In FIG. 7, the cursor shown in an enlarged display of the selected selection area 3A selects the selection area 3A on the left side in the figure, and shows the state after the composite operation unit 2 is moved to the left side. Show.

  In the screen 303 of FIG. 7, the first corresponding image 3X corresponding to the screen switching area 3a for which the decision input has been made on the upper layer screen 302 before switching is the first color having the same hue, saturation, and brightness. A second corresponding image 3Y (second corresponding color image) is displayed. The second corresponding image 3Y here is the background image 3B of the screen 303, and the background is filled with the same color as the screen switching area 3a (input image 3C) determined and input on the screen 302 before switching. Become. As a result, it is possible to intuitively grasp the relationship between the operation on the upper layer screen 302 and the lower layer screen 303 currently being displayed, which is the destination of the transition, by color.

  Further, on the screen 303 in FIG. 7, a third corresponding image 3Z corresponding to each screen switching area 3a is displayed as an image visually showing the correspondence relationship with the screen switching area 3a. The third corresponding image 3Z here is the input image 3C (here, also the auxiliary image 3D) displayed in the corresponding screen switching area 3a, and the entire image area of the input image 3C corresponds to the corresponding screen. It is an image (third corresponding color image) that is a color unique to the switching area 3a and is filled with a different color whose hue approximates that of the second corresponding image 3Y. Each of the third corresponding images 3Z is displayed in such a manner that the third corresponding image 3Z is superimposed on the second corresponding image 3Y forming the background image. That is, on the lower layer screen 303 in FIG. 7, the second corresponding image 3Y (background image) and the third corresponding image 3Z (superimposed image) have similar colors that are close to each other in hue, and are visually. Are displayed in a color that can identify them.

  When one of the screen switching areas 3a in the screen 303 is selected and input by an operation on the composite operation unit 2 in a state where the lower layer screen 303 of FIG. 7 is displayed, the control that accepted the input The unit 10 switches the screen 303 currently displayed on the display surface 30 to a lower layer screen that corresponds to the screen switching area 3a that has been determined and input and is lower than the current level. In the case of FIG. 7, the screen 303 has only one screen switching area 3 a on the lower side of the screen, and when this is selected and determined and input, the control unit 10 is a screen corresponding to the lower hierarchy. The screen display of the display 3 is switched to the screen 307 of FIG.

  A screen 307 in FIG. 8 is a lower layer screen 303 having the screen 303 in FIG. 7 as an upper layer. Like the screen 303, the screen 307 has a plurality of selection areas 3A and one or more selection areas 3A. This is a selection screen 300 including a screen switching area 3a. In FIG. 8, the cursor indicating the selected selection area 3A in the form of an enlarged display does not select the selection area 3A, and the composite operation unit 2 is kept in the neutral position without selecting each selection area 3A. ing.

  In the screen 307 of FIG. 8, the hue and color of the color of the third corresponding image 3X (first corresponding image) corresponding to the screen switching area 3a for which the decision input has been made on the upper layer screen 303 before switching is performed. A fourth corresponding image 3W (second corresponding image) having the same color and brightness is displayed. The fourth corresponding image 3W here is a background image of the screen 307, and the background is filled with the same color as the screen switching area 3a that has been determined and input on the screen 303 before switching.

  Further, on the screen 307 in FIG. 8, the screen switching areas 3a are displayed so as to be visible, and a fifth image corresponding to each screen switching area 3a as an image visually showing the correspondence with the screen switching areas 3a. Corresponding image 3V (third corresponding image) is displayed. The fifth corresponding image 3V here is the input image 3C (in this case, the auxiliary figure 3D) displayed in the corresponding screen switching area 3a, and the entire image area of the input image 3C corresponds to the corresponding screen switching. The corresponding color image is a color unique to the region 3a and is filled with a different color whose hue approximates that of the fourth corresponding image 3W (second corresponding image). Each fifth corresponding image 3V is displayed in a form of being superimposed on the fourth corresponding image 3W forming the background image.

  When one of the screen switching areas 3a in the screen 307 is selected and entered by the operation on the composite operation unit 2 in the state where the lower layer screen 307 of FIG. 8 is displayed, the control that accepted the input The unit 10 switches the screen 307 currently displayed on the display surface 30 to a lower layer screen that corresponds to the screen switching area 3a that has been determined and input and that is lower than the current level. In the case of FIG. 8, screen switching areas 3a exist in the screen 303 on the top, bottom, left, and right of the screen, respectively, and when one screen switching area 3a is selected and entered, the controller 10 Switches the screen display of the display 3 to a lower hierarchy screen corresponding to this.

  In addition, regarding the screen display based on the series of hierarchical structures in FIGS. 6 to 8, the screen switching method in the screen switching from FIG. 6 to FIG. 7 and the screen switching from FIG. 7 to FIG. Yes. That is, the hierarchical relationship between the screen 307 in FIG. 8 and the screen 303 in FIG. 7 is the same as the hierarchical relationship between the screen 303 in FIG. 7 and the screen 302 in FIG. The fifth corresponding image 3V is the third corresponding image, the fourth corresponding image 3W on the screen 307 in FIG. 8 is the second corresponding image, and the third corresponding image 3Z on the screen 303 in FIG. 7, it can be seen that the screen transition from FIG. 7 to FIG. 8 is performed in the same manner as the screen transition from FIG. 6 to FIG. 7. Therefore, if the hierarchical structure continues further below the screen 307 in FIG. 8, screen switching based on this method is sequentially executed every time the hierarchy is lowered.

  In the following, regarding the relationship between two adjacent layers of the upper layer screen and the lower layer screen that can be transited directly from the screen switching region 3a of the upper layer screen, the correspondence relationship with the screen switching region 3a in the upper layer screen The corresponding image that visually indicates the image is referred to as a first corresponding image, and is a corresponding image displayed in the lower hierarchy screen, and the first correspondence corresponding to the screen switching area 3a determined and input on the upper hierarchy screen The corresponding image having visual relevance with the image is referred to as a second corresponding image, which is also a corresponding image displayed in the lower layer screen, and is displayed in the lower layer screen and is connected to the screen switching area 3a. The corresponding image that visually indicates the correspondence is referred to as a third corresponding image. Accordingly, between the screens 303 and 307 in FIG. 7 and FIG. 8, the third corresponding image 3Z in FIG. 7 is the first corresponding image, the fourth corresponding image 3W in FIG. The eighth corresponding image 3V is assumed to be a third corresponding image.

In the present embodiment, since the screen 307 in FIG. 8 includes one or more screen switching areas 3a for transitioning the screen to a lower layer, the screen from the lower layer to FIG. In the same manner as the screen transition of FIG. 8, a corresponding image (so-called second image) having a visual relevance to the corresponding image (so-called first corresponding image) corresponding to the screen switching area 3a determined and input on the screen 307 in FIG. Corresponding image) is displayed. Further, on the screen of the lower layer of the screen 307 in FIG. 8, if the displayed screen switching region 3a further switch the screen to the screen of the lower layer than that, the correspondence between the screen switching region 3a A corresponding image (so-called third corresponding image) corresponding to each screen switching area 3a is displayed as an image visually indicating the relationship. On the other hand, if there is no screen switching area 3a for switching the screen from the lower layer screen of the screen 307 in FIG. 8 to a lower layer screen, that screen becomes the lowest layer screen. At this time, on the lowest hierarchy screen, the so-called second corresponding image may be displayed, but there is no so-called third corresponding image.

  As described above, in the screen display based on the hierarchical structure in the present embodiment, when one or more screen switching areas 3a are present on the currently displayed screen, the corresponding relationship with each screen switching area 3a is displayed on the screen. When the first corresponding image 3X (3Z) that visually indicates is displayed and a decision input is made to any of the screen switching areas 3a and the transition is made to the next screen, A second corresponding image 3Y (3W) having a visual relevance with respect to the first corresponding image 3X is displayed, and the relevance of both screens becomes clear. When one or more screen switching areas 3a exist in the next screen, the second corresponding image 3Y (3W) and the third corresponding image 3Z (3V) corresponding to each of the screen switching areas 3a. Are displayed as different images while having visual relevance to the second corresponding image 3Y (3W). Then, the transition to the next screen is performed in the form of repeating these.

  In FIG. 7, the remaining selection area 3A different from the screen switching area 3a in the selection area 3A is an area for receiving a change operation for changing the control parameter associated with each area 3A. In the screen 303 of FIG. 7, the moving operation is determined as a selection operation, and the selected operation is performed by performing the rotation operation in a state where one of the selection regions 3A is selected by the selection operation. Control for changing the control parameter corresponding to the above in accordance with the operation amount of the rotation operation is executed. For example, the screen 303 in FIG. 7 is in a state where the selection area 3A for changing the music data file is selected. When the above rotation operation is performed in this state, the folder 03 of a predetermined storage medium (Disk) is displayed. Can be switched to another file in the folder 03 in accordance with a predetermined order.

  The screen 308 in FIG. 9 is the same selection screen 300 as the screen 303 in FIG. 7, but the drawing contents of each selection area 3A are different because the selected selection area 3A is different. However, in the selection area 3A (lower side in the figure) which is the screen switching area 3a, the drawing contents are not changed. Thus, even if the screen display is changed due to the difference in the selection state in the same selection screen 300, the display of the selection area 3A that is the screen switching area 3a is not changed.

  In the screen 308 of FIG. 9, it is possible to switch the reproduction target. In FIG. 7, the reproduction of the data stored in the storage medium (Disk) is selected, but here, the reproduction target of FM1 is selected. Has been switched. Here, the selection state for the selection area 3A is switched by the moving operation described above, and the control parameter being selected is changed by the rotating operation described above. FIG. 9 shows a state after the composite operation unit 2 is moved to the right side, and the cursor selects the selection area 3A on the right side in the figure.

  The screen 304 in FIG. 10 displays a driving assistance image 3E photographed by an in-vehicle camera (not shown), and is not the selection screen 300. Therefore, the screen 304 is the lowest hierarchy screen in which the selection area 3A does not exist and no lower hierarchy screen exists. However, in order to make a transition from the top menu screen 302 to the screen 304, a correspondence having a visual relevance with respect to the corresponding image (so-called first corresponding image) 3X corresponding to the screen switching area 3a determined and input on the top menu screen 302. An image 3U (so-called second corresponding image 3Y) is displayed. Here, the corresponding image 3C and the corresponding image 3E are images having the same color, pattern, and outer shape, and the size and direction also match. The corresponding image (second corresponding image) 3U here reflects the operation flow line of the composite operation unit 2 for selecting the screen switching area 3a for causing the composite operation unit 2 to transition to the screen 304. The auxiliary image 3D shows the operation direction.

  In the lowest hierarchy screen, when one still image or moving image is displayed on the entire screen as shown in FIG. 10, the display of the so-called second corresponding image may be omitted. In this case, the color of the corresponding image (so-called first corresponding image) corresponding to the screen switching area 3a input for switching the screen to the lowest hierarchy screen may be white or black.

  A screen 305 in FIG. 11 is a selection screen 300 having a plurality of selection areas 10A, but is the lowest hierarchy screen in which there is no screen switching area 3a among the selection areas 10A. Therefore, in the screen 305 of FIG. 11, any of the selection areas 10A can be selected by the movement operation, and the selected area is selected by performing the rotation operation in the selected state. The control parameter corresponding to 3A can be changed according to the rotation amount of the rotation operation. FIG. 11 shows a state after the composite operation unit 2 is moved to the left side, and the cursor selects the selection area 3A on the left side in the figure.

  A screen 306 in FIG. 12 is a selection screen 300 having a selection area 10A, all of which are screen switching areas 3a. By selecting and determining and inputting one of the screen switching areas 3a, FIG. 6 and the screens 302 and 307 in FIG. 8, transition to four types of lower layer screens is possible. On the screen 306, a corresponding image unique to each screen switching area 3a is displayed as an image visually indicating the correspondence with each screen switching area 3a. When any one of the screen switching areas is selected / decided and input, In the previous screen after the transition, a corresponding image (here, a background image having the same color) having a visual relevance to the corresponding image determined and input on the screen before the transition is displayed. FIG. 12 shows a state after the composite operation unit 2 is moved to the left side, and the cursor selects the selection area 3A on the left side in the figure.

  In the selection screen 300 in the present embodiment, in each selection area 3A, a display emphasizing portion (here, a line image) 3L having the same design is provided on the same rotation direction side in the circumferential direction around the screen reference point O as a background image. Although it is designed to be reminiscent of a windmill-like rotation displayed above, the selection operation is performed not by the rotation operation described above but by the movement operation described above. Here, in order to show the movement operation, an auxiliary image 3D reflecting the operation flow line of the operation method of the composite operation unit 2 corresponding to the displayed selection screen 300 is displayed.

  In addition, the composite operation unit 2 according to the present embodiment has a predetermined seat so that a user's operation burden is smaller than that of a main operation unit such as a touch panel provided on the display surface 30 or a mechanical switch disposed in the vicinity thereof. 2 is arranged as an auxiliary operation unit at a position closer to 2. Here, as shown in FIG. 2, the user (passenger) sitting in the driver's seat and the passenger seat is provided at a position where both users can operate while sitting on the backrest of each seat. . More specifically, the composite operation unit 2 is disposed in a region (here, a center console) C sandwiched between left and right seats (here, a driver seat and a passenger seat) of the vehicle. On the other hand, the display device 3 is arranged in a form that is visible to the user sitting on both seats on the vehicle front side of the composite operation unit 2.

  Although one embodiment of the present invention has been described above, this is merely an example, and the present invention is not limited to this, and the knowledge of those skilled in the art can be used without departing from the spirit of the claims. Various modifications based on this are possible. Hereinafter, an embodiment different from the above embodiment will be described.

  For example, in the above-described embodiment, the second corresponding image matches the color of the first corresponding image corresponding to the second corresponding image. However, the second corresponding image may not necessarily match, and at least the hue is the same or similar. For example, the saturation and the luminance may be different. Further, each third corresponding image drawn in a color that approximates the second corresponding image may be a color of a different hue that approximates the second corresponding image, or the saturation and color without changing the hue. It is good also as a different color which changed the brightness | luminance.

  In the above embodiment, the association between the upper layer screen and the lower layer screen is given by the color of the first corresponding image and the second corresponding image, but a pattern may be used instead of the color. . That is, although the patterns in FIGS. 6 to 12 are regarded as colors in the above-described embodiment, they may be regarded as patterns or a combination of colors and patterns. A pattern is a pattern figure that appears regularly on the surface of an object, such as various pictures and shapes that appear in the area, and does not include a character string or symbol string, or an idea of color or size. . In other words, the same pattern only needs to appear in the same pattern in the area, such as hatching, and even if the color and area size are different, the figure that appears in the area and its drawing pattern If they match, the same pattern is assumed.

  For example, FIGS. 13 to 15 show an example of a hierarchical display in which an upper layer screen and a lower layer screen are associated with each other using both patterns and colors. FIG. 13 is a top menu screen (top layer screen) 312 similar to the screen 302 of FIG. 6, but the so-called first corresponding image 3X is defined as a pattern image that has colors that are not close to each other and the patterns do not match each other. ing. When the screen switching area 3a corresponding to the first corresponding image 3X is selected on the top menu screen 312 and a determination input is made, a lower hierarchy screen corresponding to the screen switching area 3a is displayed as a screen as shown in FIG. 313 is displayed. In the lower layer screen 313 of FIG. 14, the second corresponding image 3Y has a different color with a hue similar to that of the first corresponding image 3X corresponding to the screen switching area 3a determined and input on the top menu screen 312 and a pattern. The same pattern image (here, the background image) is displayed. Furthermore, on the lower layer screen 313 in FIG. 14, the first corresponding image 3X and the above-mentioned first corresponding image 3X are shown as the third corresponding image 3Z that visually indicates the correspondence with one or more screen switching areas 3a existing in the screen 313. A pattern image having the same color as the second corresponding image 3Y and a different color is displayed. A screen 317 in FIG. 15 is a screen on a lower layer that can be directly shifted from the lower layer screen 313 in FIG. 14. On the screen 313 in FIG. 15, the corresponding images 3W and 3V have the same pattern as the screen switching area 3a determined and input on the screen 302 in FIG. Yes.

  In this way, by continuing to use the pattern of the screen switching area 3a determined and input on the screen of the highest hierarchy for the corresponding images on all lower hierarchy screens that can transition from there, It becomes possible to grasp the control type that becomes the basis of the branch made on each hierarchical screen. In the case of a pattern, unlike a color, it is difficult to visually recognize a slight difference. Therefore, when a plurality of branches are repeated, it is difficult to make a visible difference. Therefore, by using the pattern in all the lower hierarchy screens, it is possible to imagine the contents of the image switching area in at least the selection screen of the uppermost hierarchy. In the case of FIGS. 13 to 15, the pattern selected on the top menu screen 302 is the background pattern of all lower layer screens.

  In the above embodiment, the first corresponding image is an input image on the upper layer screen and the lower layer screen. However, the first corresponding image may not be the input image, and there is a correspondence relationship with at least the screen switching area 3a. Any image that visually indicates that there is either or both of the color and pattern unique to the selection region 3A may be used. For example, an instruction image indicating the corresponding selection area 3A, an image arranged close to each screen switching area 3a under a unified rule, or the like may be used. The second corresponding image is a background image of the screen, but it may not be a background image. For example, the correspondence relationship with the screen content display unit 3M provided in a predetermined area in the screen is visually shown. A second corresponding image having a visual relevance to the corresponding first corresponding image may be displayed in the region (for example, an approximate region with the screen content display unit 3M).

  FIG. 16 and FIG. 17 are examples thereof, and the screen 322 of FIG. 16 that is the upper layer screen displays a strip-like image 3N along the outer edge of the screen as the first corresponding image 3X. The first corresponding image 3X is displayed using the belt-like image 3N, and the screen 325 in FIG. 17 which is a lower layer screen that can be directly transitioned from the screen 332 transitions directly from the screen 322 in FIG. An image having an external shape similar to the band-like image 3N (first corresponding image 3X) corresponding to the screen switching area 3a input and input to the screen is defined as the second corresponding image 3Y, and the screen contents are displayed in the screen 325. It is displayed in the proximity area to the headline display portion 3M displayed by a character string. The second corresponding image 3Y here is a band-like image having the same color and pattern and the same thickness as the corresponding first corresponding image 3X, and is displayed as an underlined portion of the display unit 3M. ing.

  FIG. 18 and FIG. 19 are also examples, and the screen 332 of FIG. 18 which is the upper layer screen displays the first corresponding image 3X using the auxiliary image 3D, and transitions directly from the screen 332 In the screen 335 of FIG. 19 which is a possible lower layer screen, the auxiliary image 3D (first corresponding image 3X) corresponding to the screen switching area 3a input to be determined and shifted directly from the screen 332 of FIG. An image having a similar external shape to the second corresponding image 3Y is displayed in the screen 335 in a region close to the headline display unit 3M that displays the screen content as a character string (here, the leading position of the character string). is doing. Note that the second corresponding image 3Y here is an image having the same color, pattern, and outer shape as the corresponding first corresponding image 3X, and also matches in size and direction.

  In the above embodiment, the hue, saturation, and brightness all match in the first corresponding image and the second corresponding image corresponding to the first corresponding image. Either or both of the saturation and the lightness of the corresponding image displayed can be reduced. As a result, it is possible to grasp the current depth of the screen by reducing the saturation and brightness.

  For example, the first corresponding image 3X displayed in the upper layer screen (reference numeral 342 in FIG. 20) and the first corresponding image in the lower layer screen (reference numeral 343 in FIG. 21) that can be directly shifted from there. The second corresponding image 3Y corresponding to 3X is displayed in the screen (FIG. 21) on which the second corresponding image 3Y is displayed with the hue, saturation, and lightness all matching. The third corresponding image 3Z may have a hue that is similar to that of the first corresponding image 3X and the second corresponding image 3Y, and that either or both of saturation and lightness are reduced. it can. Further, in the lower layer screen (FIG. 21) that can be directly transitioned from this screen (FIG. 21), the third corresponding image 3Z (first corresponding image) determined and inputted at the time of the transition is displayed. For the fourth corresponding image 3Y (second corresponding image), the fourth corresponding image 3W is displayed with the hue, saturation, and brightness all matching those of the third corresponding image 3Z. The fifth corresponding image 3V (third corresponding image) displayed in the screen (reference numeral 347 in FIG. 22) has a hue approximate to the third corresponding image 3Z and the fourth corresponding image 3W. In addition, the color can be a color in which either one or both of saturation and brightness are reduced.

  Further, in the composite operation unit 2 in the above-described embodiment, the operation direction of the moving operation is not limited to the four cross-shaped directions as described above, for example, directions less than four directions such as two directions, eight directions, six directions, and the like. The direction may be five or more directions. However, it may be provided so as to extend radially from the reference position at equal intervals. The selection screen 300 also needs to have the selection area 3 </ b> A arranged in a form corresponding to the operation direction and the number of operation directions of the composite operation unit 2.

  In the above-described embodiment, the colors and patterns of the first to third corresponding images are fixedly determined on each selection screen, but the corresponding image change operation unit that receives the color change input operation of these corresponding images 25, and the control unit 10 connected thereto can change the setting of the color and pattern of the corresponding image displayed on each selection screen based on the setting input operation from the corresponding image changing operation unit 25. Alternatively (corresponding color changing means and corresponding pattern changing means: corresponding image changing means). Since the setting information of the corresponding image displayed on each selection screen is stored as the corresponding image information in the image information storage unit 41 of the external storage device 4, the control unit 10 inputs the setting by the corresponding image change operation unit 25. The corresponding image information is rewritten based on the operation content of the operation. In this case, the changeable corresponding image may be only the first corresponding image displayed on the selection screen of the highest hierarchy. The remaining lower layer corresponding image is the same as the corresponding first corresponding image on the uppermost layer screen with respect to the pattern, and the hue range that approximates the corresponding first corresponding image on the uppermost layer screen with respect to the color The hue, saturation, and brightness of each corresponding image in each lower layer may be automatically set according to a predetermined algorithm.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Input system for vehicles 2 Composite operation part 3 Display (display means)
DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 30 Display surface 3A Selection area 3a Screen switching area 3B Background image 3C Input image 3D Auxiliary image 300 Selection screen 4 External storage device 10 Control part (main display control means)
3X (3Z) First corresponding image 3Y (3W) Second corresponding image 3Z (3V) Third corresponding image

Claims (9)

Display means, display control means for displaying a selection screen having a plurality of selection areas on the display surface of the display means, and a plurality of selection areas in the selection screen are selectively selected and entered. An input system for a vehicle comprising an operation unit for
The selection screen includes one or more screen switching areas for switching the display on the display screen to a predetermined lower hierarchy screen by being selected and input by the operation unit in the plurality of selection areas. Including upper hierarchy screens
The display control means includes a first corresponding image having one or both of a color and a pattern unique to each screen switching region as an image visually indicating a correspondence relationship with the screen switching region in the upper layer screen. On the other hand, when one of the screen switching areas is selected and input by the operation unit, the display on the display surface is switched to the lower hierarchy screen corresponding to the screen switching area. In the lower hierarchy screen, a second corresponding image having a visual relevance related to either or both of a color and a pattern is displayed on the first corresponding image corresponding to the screen switching area that has been determined and input. Is,
The first corresponding image has a first corresponding color image filled with a color unique to the corresponding screen switching area, and the second corresponding image has at least a hue with the color of the first corresponding image. Having a second corresponding color image filled with the same or similar color;
The lower hierarchy screen is a selection screen having a plurality of the selection areas, and each of the selection areas includes one or more screen switching areas for switching display of the display surface to a predetermined lower hierarchy screen. Contains
The display control means displays the second corresponding color image when displaying the lower layer screen, while switching the screen as an image visually indicating a correspondence relationship with one or more screen switching regions. An input system for a vehicle , wherein a third corresponding color image having a color unique to a region is displayed as an image having a color different from a color of the second corresponding color image . The vehicle input system according to claim 1 , wherein the first corresponding color image and the second corresponding color image have the same hue. The first corresponding image has a first pattern image on which a corresponding screen switching area unique pattern is drawn, and the second corresponding image has the same pattern as the first corresponding image drawn thereon The vehicle input system according to claim 1 , wherein the vehicle input system has a second pattern image. The vehicle input system according to claim 3 , wherein a background pattern in the displayed corresponding color image is the same in all the lower hierarchy screens.   The vehicle input system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the second corresponding image is a background image on the lower layer screen. 6. The display control unit according to claim 1, wherein one or both of the saturation and brightness of the corresponding color image to be displayed is reduced as the screen is lower in the hierarchy. The vehicle input system described in 1. Accepting color change input operation of each of the corresponding color image, any one of claims 1 comprises a corresponding color changing means for changing the setting of the color of the corresponding color image based on the input operation according to claim 6 The vehicle input system described in 1. Display means, display control means for displaying a selection screen having a plurality of selection areas on the display surface of the display means, and a plurality of selection areas in the selection screen are selectively selected and entered. An input system for a vehicle comprising an operation unit for
The selection screen includes one or more screen switching areas for switching the display on the display screen to a predetermined lower hierarchy screen by being selected and input by the operation unit in the plurality of selection areas. Including upper hierarchy screens
The display control means includes a first corresponding image having one or both of a color and a pattern unique to each screen switching region as an image visually indicating a correspondence relationship with the screen switching region in the upper layer screen. On the other hand, when one of the screen switching areas is selected and input by the operation unit, the display on the display surface is switched to the lower hierarchy screen corresponding to the screen switching area. In the lower hierarchy screen, a second corresponding image having a visual relevance related to either or both of a color and a pattern is displayed on the first corresponding image corresponding to the screen switching area that has been determined and input. Is,
The first corresponding image has a first pattern image on which a corresponding screen switching area unique pattern is drawn, and the second corresponding image has the same pattern as the first corresponding image drawn thereon Has a second pattern image,
The lower hierarchy screen is a selection screen having a plurality of the selection areas, and each of the selection areas includes one or more screen switching areas for switching display of the display surface to a predetermined lower hierarchy screen. Contains
The display control means displays the second corresponding image when displaying the lower hierarchy screen, while displaying the second switching image as an image visually indicating a correspondence relationship with one or more of the switching screen regions. An input system for a vehicle , wherein a third corresponding image having a unique pattern is displayed as an image including the same pattern as the pattern of the second corresponding image . The selection area in the selection screen is arranged in a cross shape in the display surface, and the operation unit is arranged in four directions of a cross shape corresponding to the selection area displayed in a cross shape in the display surface. The vehicular input system according to any one of claims 1 to 8 , wherein the cross operation unit is operable.